We all know the dread of a job interview. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job to fund your uni adventures or stepping into your first real grown up job, the infamous job interview is definitely a hurdle that you have to face.
Luckily, there are some tried and tested tips that can help you show up as your most confident, capable and professional self – and hopefully help you land that dream job as well!
Dress for the job you want
When getting ready to head off to your job interview, it’s important to remember that first impressions really count and what you’re wearing has a massive impact on how a potential employer sees you.
Not only should you dress nicely but you should keep in mind that each job requires a different type of person.
This means turning up to an interview at a law firm in a suit instead of jeans and a nice top, but also wearing something a little more casual than a pencil skirt to a hospitality interview at your local cafe.
Putting a little extra effort in your outfit and tailoring what you’re wearing to the job you’re chasing might be the one detail that puts you ahead of other candidates.
Watch your body language
Body language is one of the most subtle and sometimes subconscious factors of a job interview.
The fact is, little actions like slouching, not making eye contact, crossing your legs the wrong way or moving around lots can send the message that you just aren’t interested.
To send the best impression, try sitting up straight in your chair but leaning back so you seem relaxed and at ease.
You should also be making regular eye contact without staring, keeping your legs uncrossed, staying relatively still and never folding your arms.
All these actions can even help you exude a false sense of confidence, even if you are feeling like you are so nervous you could die on the inside.
Ask questions
Anyone who has attended a job interview before has probably been asked, “Do you have any questions?”
In the past I always thought that the polite answer was ‘no,’ which would prove that I was listening and that everything in the interview was clear.
However, this one little question can be the key to showing that you’re engaged and interested in the position.
Asking things like: how do you see this position changing and growing over time or what’s the workplace culture like, shows that you’re really invested in the job opportunity.
If you aren’t sure how to do this, try preparing some questions before your interview, based on research into the company or position, and show your potential new boss that you’re really interested in learning more.
